CLINICAL DIAGNOSTIC MANUAL
Depression is a mood disorder characterised by persistent sadness and a loss of interest in activities that were once pleasurable. It is a multifactorial condition that can affect an individual’s daily functioning and quality of life.
The causes of depression can be biological, psychological, and social, and its clinical presentation can range from mild to severe symptoms. Early detection and treatment are essential to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.
Pathology | Symptoms and Clinical Signs | Suspected Diagnosis | Confirmed Diagnosis |
|---|---|---|---|
Major depression | Depressed mood, anhedonia, appetite and sleep disturbances, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness | Severe symptoms lasting at least two weeks | Clinical evaluation, DSM-5 criteria |
Mild to moderate depression | Less severe but persistent depressive symptoms | Depressed mood, difficulty functioning in daily life | Clinical evaluation, depression questionnaires |
Reactive depression | Depression following a stressful or traumatic event | History of a clear triggering event | Clinical evaluation, patient history |
Medication-induced depression | Depressive symptoms beginning after starting a new medication | Onset of symptoms following the administration of certain medications | Review of medication history, discontinuation of the suspected drug |
Seasonal affective disorder | Depression occurring in a specific season, typically in winter | Seasonal patterns of depressive symptoms | Clinical evaluation, DSM-5 criteria |
Comments